We’re told that “Whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4). In our motherhood trials, these words remind us that God’s word extends true comfort and gospel-based hope. But when life is both hard and busy, how do we access this comfort and hope?
In the months after my children’s diagnosis with a serious medical condition, there wasn’t much time for extended Bible study, reading books, or even writing in my journal. Eventually, I tried to prioritize personal Bible reading and Sunday morning worship, but in the beginning, since one child was recovering from an extended illness, I wasn’t even able to attend church. However, one thing I did served me well: I started a list of go-to Bible verses. (It’s included as an appendix in my book, God Is Still Good: Gospel Hope & Comfort for the Unexpected Sorrows of Motherhood.)
Here are ten go-to Bible verses that have sustained me in both mundane and profound moments of motherhood. You can also download them as a free printable:
Verse #1:
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble…Be still and know that I am God.”
Psalm 46:1, 10
Verse #2:
“He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.”
Isaiah 40:11
Verse #3:
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
Verse #4:
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Verse #5:
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
Verse #6:
“…that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us…”
Ephesians 3:17-20
Verse #7:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7
Verse #8:
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9
Verse #9:
“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.”
2 Peter 1:3
Verse #10:
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Colossians 3:17
Katie Faris 